Erling Haaland cherished the moment after Norway secured a victory in a World Cup knockout game for the first time. Celebrations included donning a horned helmet and participating in the Viking Row with teammates, synchronizing with their red-clad fans. This is unbelievable. This is history,
Haaland remarked on the field.
A subtle touch from Haaland’s left foot in the 86th minute clinched the win for Norway over Ivory Coast, with a 2-1 score on Tuesday. This victory sets up a significant match against five-time champion Brazil, highlighting a reunion 28 years after a celebrated Norwegian win.
For now, the team relishes their achievement. What we’re going to think about now is to enjoy the win today. We’re really happy and proud of ourselves,
stated Martin Odegaard, the captain, who led the celebratory pace. Hopefully we can keep dreaming and keep believing and keep performing like we did,
he added.
Antonio Nusa opened the scoring for Norway in the first half with a curling kick. This marked Norway’s progress to the round of 16, facing Brazil on Sunday at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey.
Nusa expressed his joy, This is really a dream come true,
in translated remarks. This World Cup marks Norway’s return since their last appearance in 1998, where they entered the knockout round after a dramatic 2-1 comeback against Brazil.
Amad Diallo stopped Norway from securing a two-goal lead early in the second half and equalized for Ivory Coast with a left-footed kick in the 74th minute. Despite Haaland’s decisive goal, Ivory Coast continued to press forward. Diallo attempted a direct free kick in stoppage time but faced a leaping save from Orjan Nyland, keeping Norway’s lead intact.
Norway coach Ståle Solbakken explained, After their equalizer, it was easy to panic. But we got our players in the right position and managed to play our game again.
Haaland, known for minimal touches decorated with precision, scored for Norway, marking his fifth goal in three tournament games. This ranks just behind Lionel Messi, who has six goals in the competition.
Haaland, who led the Premier League with 27 goals for Manchester City, has consistently scored in 13 straight competitive international matches, amassing 25 goals.
The youthful Ivory Coast team, ranked 31st by FIFA, previously never won twice in a single World Cup. This marks their fourth appearance, matching Norway’s record.
Diallo commented, We are proud of what we achieved. But a big disappointment because we knew we have quality in the team, we have players that can make a difference anytime.
Nusa’s initial World Cup goal came in the 39th minute with a precise kick past two defenders. Goalkeeper Yahia Fofana could only watch as the ball curled into the net, marking Nusa’s ninth international goal in 28 matches for Norway.
Earlier, Diallo tied the game following a give-and-go with Nicolas Pepe. This goal came after a key save by Nyland from a Pepe shot. Diallo later deflected a near-successful shot by Torbjorn Heggen, showcasing Ivory Coast’s resilience.
Nusa received a yellow card before halftime, leading to a free-kick opportunity by Pepe. However, the subsequent header missed the target.